Enhancing Web Accessibility Training for Emory University Libraries

Scheduled at 9:00 am in Colorado I-J on Friday, November 15.

Speaker(s)

• Cari Lovins, Director, Digital Programs and Client Services, Emory University Libraries and Museum
• Colin Bragg, Web Content Strategist Lead, Emory Libraries

Session Details

• Length of Session: 1-hr
• Format: Lecture
• Expertise Level: Beginner
• Type of session: General Conference

Summary

Emory Libraries has established a Web Content Governance group comprised of Content Czars and subject matter experts who aid in managing web content for their respective areas. While the Web Content Governance group has made significant strides, a crucial gap has emerged. Many Content Czars lack essential knowledge and skills related to web accessibility. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Emory Libraries is poised to address it head-on through a targeted training initiative.

Abstract

Like many academic institutions, Emory Libraries faces growing demands in developing and maintaining accessible websites. Despite efforts, the complexity often surpasses the capabilities of web developers and content authors. Emory Libraries has established a pioneering Web Content Governance Group initiative to address this challenge. This initiative aims to empower stakeholders across the libraries, enhancing their ability to manage, maintain, and update website content efficiently. Central to this endeavor are the designated "Content Czars," pivotal figures serving as primary points of contact for web content within various libraries, divisions, and departments. Collaborating closely with subject matter experts (SMEs), these Content Czars ensure the effective management of web content.

Identified Gap: While the Web Content Governance group has made significant strides, a crucial gap has emerged. Many Content Czars lack essential knowledge and skills related to web accessibility. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Emory Libraries is poised to address it head-on through a targeted training initiative.

Proposal Focus: This presentation will spotlight the innovative accessibility curriculum and training plan meticulously crafted for Content Czars, Content SMEs, and other stakeholders involved in digital content development. Specifically designed to cater to individuals with varying levels of experience and expertise, this curriculum represents a transformative approach to web author training.

Target Audience: This presentation is tailored for higher education institutions seeking to equip their personnel with the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in web content management, particularly in the realm of accessibility.

Keypoints

1. Many who are tasked with web content lack the skills or knowledge about web accessibility.
2. Many higher education institutions lack the staff capacity to effectively manage accessible web content.
3. It is possible to create a structure enabling stakeholders to effectively manage their own web content.

Disability Areas

Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Mobility, Vision

Topic Areas

Faculty Development & Support, Teaching about Accessibility in Curriculum, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Cari Lovins

I am a librarian and the Director of Digital Programs and Client Services for Emory Libraries and Museum in Atlanta. With a dedicated focus on maximizing business value and exceeding stakeholder expectations, I specialize in cultivating the potential of individuals, refining processes, and enhancing services to drive organizational success.

As an adept strategist, I meticulously design and execute goals and objectives (OKRs) aligned with the overarching organizational strategy. Serving as a pivotal figure in the portfolio management office, I orchestrate the planning, monitoring, and execution phases of programs and projects, ensuring they not only meet but exceed customer expectations and business case objectives. My expertise spans across predictive, agile, and hybrid project management methodologies, ensuring adaptability and efficiency in every endeavor.

Collaborating closely with senior management, I contribute to shaping the technological landscape by establishing robust standards and practices. My role extends beyond mere implementation; I actively engage stakeholders and senior leadership, elucidating complex technological solutions and spearheading transformative change initiatives.

Change management is an integral facet of my responsibilities. From stakeholder assessments to impact analyses and meticulously crafted change management plans, I navigate organizational transformations with finesse, ensuring seamless transitions and maximal buy-in. In addition to my strategic contributions, I am deeply committed to nurturing talent within the Digital Programs and Clients Services team. Through coaching, mentoring, and developmental initiatives, I empower team members to thrive, fostering a culture of shared vision and proficiency in program, project, and service management within Emory University Libraries.

Colin Bragg

Colin Bragg is the lead web content strategist for Emory Libraries, where he shapes the institution’s digital presence and oversees the editorial process for online content. As chief product owner for the websites, he develops a comprehensive program roadmap in collaboration with Library Technology and Digital Strategies and Marketing and Engagement team leaders. Colin’s role includes leading committee task forces and advisory groups, managing content communication strategies, and ensuring content quality and coherence, all while fostering a collaborative environment to support Emory Libraries digital initiatives.